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Bright Lemon Chicken Soup

This comforting chicken soup features a savory broth enriched with shredded cooked chicken, aromatic vegetables, and fresh herbs. The final dish has a clear, golden appearance with a bright lemony flavor, delivering a warm, hearty, and revitalizing experience in every spoonful. It’s perfect for cozy nights or quick lunches, with a lively twist from the lemon that lifts the broth’s richness.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 carrots carrots chopped
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 4 cups chicken broth full-bodied, preferably homemade or good quality
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded, leftover roast works well
  • 1 lemon lemon zested and juiced, for brightness
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme chopped
  • salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Ladle
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Method
 

  1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  2. Add diced onions and minced garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in chopped carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until vegetables start to soften and release their sweetness.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add shredded cooked chicken, chopped thyme, and zest of the lemon.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and vegetables to become tender.
  6. Taste the broth and add a squeeze of lemon juice, salt, and pepper to brighten and balance the flavors.
  7. Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped parsley and a little extra lemon juice for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

For an extra hearty version, add cooked rice or noodles. Adjust lemon and seasoning to taste for brightening the broth. Use leftover roast chicken for convenience and flavor.